Why do we know more today than we did yesterday? One reason is that scientists engage in research. The excitement of discovering new knowledge through research is illustrated by studying the bond strength of gaseous titanium monosulfide. Its gaseous molecules as well as gaseous titanium and sulfur atoms are produced by the vaporization of the high melting crystalline titanium monosulfide at temperatures near 2000°K. The procedures for producing and measuring temperatures in this region are shown. A mass spectrometer identifies the gaseous species. Analysis of the mass spectrum gives the relative concentrations of atomic Ti and S, and of TiS molecules. A torsion effusion apparatus gives data on the total gas pressure at a series of temperatures. The partial pressure of each gaseous species is then calculated. Through Le Chatelier's Principle, measurements at different temperatures give the bond strength of gaseous TiS. But at least as many new questions are raised as are answered. We don't run out of questions in research.

Collaborator: Prof. Paul W. Gilles, University of Kansas, Lawrence.


This movie is part of the collection: CHEM Study Films

Producer: CHEM Study, College of Chemistry, U.C. Berkeley
Audio/Visual: sound, color

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